Espionage codename: Shen Gongbao

Chapter 154 Brother Gongming is no joke

Renji Hospital.

This isn't a place anyone can just walk into.

Those who come and go are either rich or noble.

Lin Huaibu stood outside the hospital, his feet feeling like they were rooted to the spot.

He brought his mother here last time.

It was this door that day too.

The receptionist and security guards at the door looked at the mother and son with suspicion, as if they were thieves, and questioned them for a long time.

He humbly mentioned the name of the Zhang family mansion and asked Ah Si to make a phone call to pull strings, which barely got him allowed in.

Once inside, the pretty nurses didn't even bother to lift their eyelids.

After running around and causing a lot of trouble, my mother finally got her checkup done.

Diseases can be cured.

Money can cost you your life.

The hospitalization fees and medication costs were all shockingly expensive, far beyond what his meager salary could afford.

In the end, he had no choice but to carry his mother home on his back.

He didn't look back once when he left Renji Hospital that day.

It's not that I don't want to watch.

I'm afraid that if I look at it again, the frustration I feel will suffocate me.

When Lin Huaibu came again today, he looked up at the lintel and his throat tightened.

He feared that this place would crush people so much that they couldn't straighten their backs.

But this is my last chance to live.

Lin Huaibu looked down at his wrinkled cotton-padded jacket, then at his equally embarrassed wife: "Xiaomei, are you sure Mother is in here?"

As he spoke, he subconsciously pulled up the hem of his clothes.

Useless.

Old clothes are old clothes; no matter how much they are pressed flat, they still carry the scent of poverty.

"Brother Bu, I'm here."

Han Xiaomei whispered, "Let's go in."

Lin Huaibu nodded, took Xiaomei's hand, and strode inside.

As soon as the two reached the gate post, a chubby security captain quickly came to greet them.

Lin Huaibu recognized him at a glance.

Last time, it was this fatso who stopped us from coming in and asked us all sorts of sarcastic questions.

Lin Huaibu's eyes turned cold.

The chubby guard, however, abandoned his usual arrogance and greeted Han Xiaomei with a beaming smile: "Oh, Ms. Han has arrived."

"

Han Xiaomei nodded timidly: "Captain Xiao."

Fatty Xiao turned his gaze and it landed on Lin Huaibu.

Lin Huaibu was a burly man with broad shoulders and a thick back. His eyes were sharp as knives, and he was clearly not someone to be trifled with.

He instinctively became alert: "Who is this?"

He had clearly forgotten the poor man he had once bullied.

Han Xiaomei hurriedly said, "This, this is my husband, Lin Huaibu."

Her voice trembled slightly—would this guy recognize her man and try to trip her up again?

Fatty Xiao's expression changed, and he became as enthusiastic as if he had seen his own father: "Oh, it's Brother Lin!"

He grabbed Lin Huaibu's hand and shook it hard.

"I've heard so much about you."

"My name is Xiao Dashan. I hope Mr. Lin will take good care of me in the future."

Lin Huaibu felt somewhat uncomfortable being held by him.

He remembered clearly that the last time this fat man looked at him, he did so through his nostrils.

What's going on today? I'm not used to this.

Lin Huaibu gave an awkward smile: "You're welcome."

Xiao Dashan quickly turned around and yelled at the security guards standing nearby, "What are you standing there for?"

"A bunch of clueless idiots."

"Mr. Lin is here, why aren't you letting him through?"

Several security guards immediately stood up straight and made way for each other.

Xiao Dashan bowed and extended his hand: "Mr. Lin, Madam, please come in."

Lin Huaibu nodded, secretly breathed a sigh of relief, and quickly took Han Xiaomei into the hospital.

We entered the hall.

As soon as they entered, the female receptionists rushed to greet them.

"Ms. Han, you've arrived."

"This must be Mr. Lin?"

"Mr. Lin, you are truly impressive. There are very few people like you in Shanghai."

"Brother Lin, I also have the surname Lin. Maybe if we go back a few generations, we're actually family."

Surrounded by beautiful women, the air was filled with a fragrant aroma.

Lin Huaibu looked somewhat embarrassed, but he felt uneasy inside.

Damn it.

Last time I stood here, none of you even bothered to lift your eyelids.

Now look at them, they're practically begging to call him their own brother.

This world is so realistic.

But he couldn't say he was uncomfortable.

Being respected and being trampled on are two different things.

He had seen big scenes with Zhang Xiaolin, but those were always when he stood on the sidelines taking the bullets for others.

Others were showing respect to the Zhang family mansion.

It wasn't him, Lin Huaibu.

Today is different.

These people are calling for Mr. Lin.

This tastes strange.

It's like bones that've been cold for half their lives suddenly being soaked in hot water and softened.

A smiling receptionist led the way: "Mr. Lin, Madam, this way please."

Instead of leading the two of them up the regular stairs, she took them directly to the VIP elevator on the side.

The female receptionist said softly, "Please come in, both of you."

Han Xiaomei had never ridden an elevator before, and nervously grabbed Lin Huaibu's sleeve.

Lin Huaibu patted her hand and led her inside.

Actually, he wasn't very comfortable with himself either.

He had ridden in rickshaws, been to dance halls, handled guns, and even killed people.

This is the first time I've ever ridden in such a VIP elevator.

Upon reaching the third floor, the female receptionist led the two into a lounge.

The room was furnished with a soft sofa, and fruit and snacks were laid out on the coffee table.

The female receptionist smiled and said, "Mr. Lin, Ms. Han, please rest for a while."

"Dean Yang is organizing a consultation with experts for your mother. He will come to see you in person after the consultation is completed."

"Would you two like tea or coffee?"

"We have specially supplied Jin Jun Mei and Long Jing teas."

Just as Lin Huaibu was about to say no, Han Xiaomei whispered, "Brother Bu, I—I want to drink coffee."

A hint of disdain flashed in the receptionist's eyes, but her smile became even more respectful: "Yes, Madam Lin, I'll go prepare it right away."

Soon after, two cups of coffee were served.

"Please enjoy your meal."

"I'll be waiting outside. Call me anytime if you need anything."

After saying that, she smiled sweetly and tiptoed out.

Only after the door closed did Han Xiaomei's tense body relax.

She raised her hand to wipe the sweat from her forehead, picked up her coffee, and carefully took a sip.

The next moment, she frowned: "Ugh, this tastes so bitter."

Lin Huaibu looked at her, his heart aching terribly.

His wife has never enjoyed any happiness with him.

After she married him, she took care of his elderly mother and managed the household. No matter how hard life was, she never complained.

Lin Huaibu reached out and wiped her mouth, smiling gently, "Don't drink it if it's bitter."

Han Xiaomei, however, couldn't bear to put it down and took another small sip: "Rich people drink good stuff, we can't waste it."

Lin Huaibu remained silent.

He walked to the window and looked at the cars coming and going downstairs.

After a long while, he let out a long breath.

Living in a luxury mansion, driving a luxury car, with gold in one hand and money in the other.

A good man should be like this.

One cannot live as a tool for others forever.

He risked his life for the Zhang family, braving wind and rain, guns and knives, always putting his life on the line.

In the end, my mother got sick, and I couldn't even scrape together 500 yuan for her medical expenses.

Damn it.

Han Xiaomei walked to his side and gently pinched him: "Brother Bu, you really are something else."

"With such powerful connections, why didn't you speak up sooner, causing our mother to delay for so long?"

3

"If your friend hadn't come to our house, we don't know what would have happened to Mom's illness."

Lin Huaibu gave a wry smile.

How can personal connections be so useful?

If he really had such connections, would Zhang Xiaolin have been able to manipulate him with thirty-five silver dollars?

Judging from the treatment he receives today, the person who helped him must be someone of considerable influence.

When Ah Si spoke up for him, all he did was find a minor department head to barely get his mother a checkup.

What about today?

The security guards at the entrance bowed, the receptionists smiled obsequiously, and the hospital director personally organized consultations in the VIP passage.

This kind of prestige is rare in Shanghai.

Japanese officers are allowed.

Yu Qiaqing and Zhang Xiaolin are acceptable.

Who does Lin Huaibu think he is?

Of all the people he knew, Ah Si didn't have that ability.

Zhang Fayao wouldn't care whether his mother lived or died.

who can that be?

Han Xiaomei grasped his hand, her eyes filled with anticipation: "Brother Bu, will we finally be able to live a good life from now on?"

Looking at his wife's rough hands, Lin Huaibu felt a pang of heartache: "I will."

"It definitely will."

"Once my mother is cured, I'll buy you a big house and a car."

Han Xiaomei's eyes reddened: "We'll have a few more babies then."

"One is like you, and the other is like me."

"Every day, Mom sits in the doorway basking in the sun, watching the children run around. That makes her life perfect."

Lin Huaibu nodded: "Mm."

He had already made up his mind.

No matter who this benefactor is, as long as he can save his mother, and as long as he's not Japanese, he's willing to sell his life.

I'm not going to be someone's dog.

It's about repaying a debt of gratitude.

A moment later, there was a soft knock on the door.

The female receptionist pushed open the door and came in: "Mr. Lin, Dean Yang and his team have finished their consultation. Please come over with your wife."

Lin Huaibu immediately turned around: "Okay."

Han Xiaomei quickly put down the coffee, picked up her clothes, and followed.

The corridor was quiet.

Outside the VIP ward on the third floor, several doctors were talking in hushed tones.

One of them was a foreign doctor with a high nose and deep-set eyes.

Yang Hongchang stood in the crowd, his bald head shiny with oil, holding a medical record folder in his hand.

Upon seeing Lin Huaibu, he immediately greeted him with a broad smile: "Brother Lin, you've finally arrived."

Lin Huaibu was taken aback.

Yang Hongchang had already grabbed his hand and said with a smile, "Come, come, let me introduce you."

"This is Dr. Monel from Germany, an expert in treating lung diseases."

"This is Director Li."

"This is Director Tang."

'

The doctors nodded in agreement.

Lin Huaibu was somewhat at a loss and could only repeatedly clasp his hands in thanks, saying, "Everyone, thank you for your trouble."

Dr. Monell spoke a few words in English.

Director Li, who was standing nearby, translated: "The doctor said that the old man's condition is not serious, but he was taken to the hospital in time. As long as he gets the medication, there shouldn't be any major problems."

Yang Hongchang picked up the conversation, smiling and assuring everyone, "Brother Lin, don't worry."

"We just discussed it. Your mother has obvious lung inflammation, but it hasn't reached the worst stage yet."

"It's not advisable to operate right now, and there's no need to put the elderly person through any trouble."

"Try conservative treatment with antibiotics first, and observe continuously."

"Once the inflammation is brought under control in the hospital, the patient's condition will stabilize."

Lin Huaibu was extremely excited: "Dean, is my mother really out of danger?"

Yang Hongchang patted his arm: "With me here, do you think anything will happen to the old lady?"

"You don't need to worry about the medicine at all."

"The antibiotics we used on your mother were all the latest and best military-grade antibiotics."

"This medicine is hard to get now; even if you have money, you might not be able to buy it outside."

"But we're all brothers, this is nothing."

Lin Huaibu was not good with words, so he could only bow deeply to the group and say, "Thank you."

Thank you everyone.

"I, Lin Huaibu, will remember this kindness."

Yang Hongchang smiled.

Normally, no matter how heroic this kid looks, it would be pointless for him to even glance at him.

But things are different now. Anyone who can get the shrewd Wang Xuesen to personally handle things must be extraordinary.

Such a person owes you a favor; they might be of great use to you in the future.

Thinking of this, Yang Hongchang took out a pen from his pocket, quickly wrote down a phone number, and handed it to Lin Huaibu: "Brother Lin, this is my home number."

"If anyone in the family has a headache or fever in the future, just call me."

"They look for hospitals during the day, and my house at night."

"Brother, I can't speak for everything else, but in Renji Hospital, I do have some influence."

Lin Huaibu accepted the slip of paper, which resembled a "get-out-of-jail-free card," with both hands, expressing his deepest gratitude: "Thank you, Dean Yang."

Yang Hongchang laughed and said, "Don't call me Dean, you're being too polite."

"If you don't mind, call me Brother Yang."

Lin Huaibu paused for a moment: "Brother Yang."

Yang Hongchang laughed even harder.

"That's right."

"Your mother is in intensive care unit number three, and the nurses are watching her 24 hours a day."

"Let's go see your mother first."

As he spoke, he led the way.

Han Xiaomei took the paper and followed behind, reading it aloud over and over again in a low voice.

It's like they're afraid they'll remember it wrong or forget it.

Lin Huaibu reminded her, "Xiaomei, what are you doing?"

"A point of progress."

Han Xiaomei's nose tingled, and tears fell as she whispered, "Brother Bu, this is the dean."

"The director of Renji Hospital."

"Over the past few days, we've begged and pleaded with everyone we could to get treatment for our mother's illness, and we've endured so much hardship."

"The dean has given us his home phone number now, what a blessing!"

"Brother Bu, pinch me."

"I'm afraid I'm dreaming."

Lin Huaibu gripped his hand tightly: "It's not a dream."

"It's true."

"Xiaomei, our mother is saved."

As he walked, his doubts deepened.

Who is it?

It's remarkable that someone like Yang Hongchang personally greeted him.

They didn't even mention money, just used the best medicine.

This is not your average help.

The more he thought about it, the heavier his heart became.

This kindness is too great.

It's so big that he doesn't even know if he can repay it.

"Walk."

Lin Huaibu released Han Xiaomei, his voice lowering.

We arrived at the door of ward number three.

dong dong!

Yang Hongchang knocked on the door.

The door opened.

Inside stood a handsome young man, smiling at him: "Old Lin, you've finally arrived."

Is that you?

Lin Huaibu recognized him.

Occupy Shenzhen!

Wang Xuesen, number 76, is a bodyguard with a monthly salary of two hundred US dollars.

He was also the notorious Kuomintang's top assassin who once tried to assassinate Ji Yunqing—the Lone Ranger!

The two had previously competed in shooting and hand-to-hand combat, and he had come out slightly better, so they could be considered to have a mutual respect.

Seeing him standing in the doorway in a daze, Zhan Shen raised an eyebrow: "Brother, really? It's only been a few days, and you don't recognize me?"

Upon hearing this, Han Xiaomei immediately panicked.

She didn't know who Zhan Shen was, only that she was able to get her mother-in-law into Renji Hospital today thanks to these benefactors.

Her husband stood at the door like a wooden stake, unable to utter a single decent word.

"Brother Bu, someone important is talking to you," Han Xiaomei whispered a reminder.

Lin Huaibu then came to his senses.

He was used to keeping a cold face at the Zhang mansion, and he wouldn't even flinch when he drew his gun to kill someone. But when he encountered this kind of situation involving human relationships, he didn't know how to speak.

He forced out, "Hello—long time no see."

Zhan Shen was taken aback by his retort and said disdainfully, "Don't you have any other words? This is so boring."

"Go inside, I'm going outside for a smoke."

Lin Huaibu scratched his head, somewhat embarrassed.

They entered the ward.

The old lady leaned against the pillows, and seemed to be in good spirits.

The young man in the black trench coat and gold-rimmed glasses by the bed was peeling an apple for the old lady with a knife.

As he peeled the fruit, he chatted with the old lady, his tone as warm and familiar as that of a younger family member.

"Mother, don't worry about the money."

"Once you get to the hospital, listen to the doctor. Take your medicine if you need to, and take supplements if you need to."

"Your son is a very capable person; things will get better."

The old lady coughed twice, her voice weak but tinged with joy: "Little Wang, you really know how to sweet-talk this old woman."

"My son Huaibu is just like his father; he's all talent but no social skills, and you can't get a word out of him even if you beat him three times."

"So all I can do is guard people's homes and property."

Wang Xuesen laughed and said, "That's Old Lin's composure."

"There are too many people in Shanghai who can talk a good game, but too few who can get things done."

"Mother is blessed to have such a son."

Yang Hongchang stood aside with a smile, occasionally interjecting a comment, and the atmosphere was very familiar.

"Hey, Old Lin's here." Wang Xuesen turned around and smiled in surprise.

Lin Huaibu finally learned about his benefactor.

Wang Xuesen!

Director of Interrogation Room No. 76.

He's also the person Zhan Shen mentioned who pays his bodyguard two hundred US dollars a month.

A brother from the Loyalty Hall once mentioned this person; he was known in the martial arts world as "Timely Rain!"

In the past, Lin Huaibu simply took it as idle gossip.

But today, his mother is lying in the special care ward of Renji Hospital.

This is a genuine act of saving a life.

"mother!"

Lin Huaibu's throat tightened, and he rushed to the bedside: "Mother, how are you feeling?"

The old lady's eyes welled up with tears when she saw her son.

"Much better."

"The doctor gave me an injection and some oxygen, and my chest doesn't feel as blocked anymore."

"Huaibu, you should thank Xiao Wang."

"They came to our door early this morning, busying themselves with everything, without complaining that your mother was dirty or that our family was poor."

Lin Huaibu lowered his head, his nose stinging with tears.

Han Xiaomei put the clothes aside, quickly came over, wiping away her tears, and said, "Mom, Brother Bu is here. You can rest and get better."

Wang Xuesen stood up and said, "Mother, you and my brother chat first."

"Old Yang, let's go."

Yang Hongchang nodded quickly: "Okay, okay, Grandma, please rest well. Just ring the bell if you need anything."

The old lady tried to support herself to express her gratitude.

Wang Xuesen immediately reached out and pressed down lightly.

"Mother, don't move."

"We're all family, thanking each other like this will only make us feel distant."

Lin Huaibu looked up at Wang Xuesen, his lips moved, but for a moment he didn't know what to say.

Wang Xuesen smiled, turned around and left the ward.

I entered the dean's office.

Yang Hongchang personally poured tea for Wang Xuesen and said bluntly, "Brother, we're brothers, so I won't beat around the bush."

"I really can't hold on much longer with Yu Yefeng."

"My daughter is still trapped at Hongji Charity Hall."

"That guy surnamed Yu is being polite, but he's actually using her as a tool."

"In the pharmaceutical business, we used to be able to make a profit from each other."

"Once he gets involved, he takes all the profits, and I can't even get 10% of the profits."

-

"To put it bluntly, I'm just running errands for him and taking risks for him, and in the end, all the profits go to him."

Yang Hongchang felt increasingly frustrated as he spoke.

"You have to bribe the higher-ups, you have to bribe the Public Works Department, and the brothers who help out at the hospital get a share of the profits."

"To be honest, I'm barely making ends meet with my own money right now."

"If this drags on any longer, I might as well quit my job as dean."

"Resign as soon as possible; at least you can save your life."

Wang Xuesen held his teacup, not in a hurry to express his opinion.

What is the most feared thing in doing business?

I'm afraid others will panic.

When Yang Hongchang panics, he tries to extricate himself.

If he withdraws, the pharmaceutical supply chain will be cut off.

This path wasn't just about making money; it was also the source of his influence as he navigated various powerful factions, including Qinghong.

Yu Yefeng wasn't just robbing money.

They're risking their own lives.

Wang Xuesen put down his teacup and smiled: "Brother, let's not even talk about making money."

"Since we've become sworn brothers, I have no reason to watch you get cornered."

"Just wait, the results will be in soon."

Yang Hongchang gave a wry smile: "Brother, that's a good point."

Let's speak frankly and openly.

"If you're confident, I, Yang Hongchang, will continue to work with you."

"If you're unreliable, don't drag me into this."

"If I stay in this muddy water any longer, I'm afraid I won't even be able to get my bones back."

He paused, lowering his voice.

"Don't blame me for being a coward."

"Which of these people in Shanghai isn't ruthless and heartless?"

"Zhang Xiaolin, Yu Yefeng, Li Shiqun—I can't afford to offend any of them. They're all unprofitable. Who's going to risk their life for a living?"

Wang Xuesen smiled and agreed.

Yang Hongchang was greedy for money and also afraid of death.

But there's nothing shameful about it.

Only those who fear death cherish their lives, and only those who are greedy understand the value of profit.

Such a person is much more useful than someone who spouts loyalty but then betrays others.

"Brother is right."

Wang Xuesen crossed his legs, lit a cigarette, and took a puff: "If you don't have the skills, don't take on the job."

"When I, Wang Xuesen, am a brother, loyalty comes first."

"In business, keeping one's word is of the highest value."

As he spoke, he opened his briefcase, took out a stack of brand-new US dollars, and slapped them on the table.

"Brother, what's this?" Yang Hongchang's eyes lit up.

Wang Xuesen pushed the money forward, saying, "Take this money and use it for your expenses."

Consider this my deposit for the next batch of goods.

Yang Hongchang swallowed hard: "Brother, stop trying to trick me. Yu Yefeng is holding me back; I really can't produce the goods."

0

"Then wait until I've established the channels and you can deliver the goods before giving them to me," Wang Xuesen said with a smile.

"If Yu Yefeng can keep me under his thumb, then I'll consider myself incompetent."

"Consider this money a favor I paid for taking care of my brother."

Yang Hongchang stared at him, stunned.

That's ten thousand US dollars!

What Wang Xuesen took out was not money.

It's courage.

Yu Yefeng used his daughter to pressure him.

Wang Xuesen offered him real money to appease him.

You can tell at a glance who is capable of success.

Yang Hongchang sighed and said, "Brother's sincerity is unmatched, even if Fan Li were to be reborn. I, old Yang, am convinced."

Wang Xuesen was amused by him: "Brother, don't flatter me."

"In business, what you say is all empty words."

Only real money can stand firm.

He pointed to the US dollars on the table.

"rest assured."

"I'll take care of the drug supply and your daughter."

Yang Hongchang put away the money, nodded and said, "I trust you to handle things. I'll wait for your good news, brother."

"I also want to make a promise to you here."

"If you can get the distribution channels back from Yu Yefeng, I'll ship 20% more goods every month."

Wang Xuesen nodded: "Thank you, brother."

As the two were talking, Zhan Shen opened the door and poked half his body in, blinking at Wang Xuesen.

Wang Xuesen nodded slightly, stood up and straightened his trench coat: "Alright then, I'll leave my brother's mother in your care, brother."

Yang Hongchang patted his chest and said, "Your brothers are my brothers."

"Your brother's mother is also my mother."

"The old lady is with me, you can rest assured."

Wang Xuesen smiled, cupped his hands in thanks, and said, "Thanks."

He left the office.

Zhan Shen whispered, "Old Lin is waiting for you outside."

Wang Xuesen glanced at him: "You seem quite interested."

"He's a good shot, and he's also good with his fists and feet."

"It's a waste to keep him by Zhang Xiaolin's side," Zhan Shen said with a sense of sympathy.

Wang Xuesen laughed and said, "It's rare to see a lone wolf worrying about others."

Zhan Shen snorted and ignored him.

Wang Xuesen stopped joking.

There are true brothers in this world, and there are also those who don't care about money.

For example, someone like Zhan Shen can spend two hundred US dollars for half a year. If you raise his salary, he'll complain that it's too much trouble.

But most of the brothers still need money.

Without money to pave the way, all talk of loyalty and camaraderie will ultimately become empty words.

To truly win people's hearts, you must first make them live like human beings.

We reached the corner of the corridor.

Lin Huaibu stood there, his back ramrod straight.

Seeing Wang Xuesen approach, he immediately stepped forward, clasped his hands in a fist and palm salute, and said, "Director Wang, thank you."

Brother Lin.

He pulled Lin Huaibu a few steps toward a corner of the corridor, avoiding the nurses and doctors.

"To be honest, from the first time I met Brother Lin, I felt an inexplicable sense of closeness."

"Originally, I went to your house this time just to pay a visit and make friends."

"Unexpectedly, my mother fell ill."

"After hearing what my sister-in-law said, I realized that Brother Lin's life had become so difficult."

Lin Huaibu's face felt hot.

Wang Xuesen continued, "Don't worry about the medical expenses for Mother's treatment."

"Dean Yang is a friend of mine, and the medical care here is pretty good."

"If she can't be cured, I'll transfer her to the Japanese Army Hospital."

"In short, I'll save your life, old man."

Lin Huaibu's eyes instantly reddened.

He's not good with words.

My mind was in turmoil, but I couldn't utter any nice words.

"I, Lin Huaibu, am just an ordinary mortal."

"Why does the director value this so much?"

Wang Xuesen shook his head and smiled, "Brother, you're too modest."

"If you're just an ordinary person, who else in this world is worthy of being called a hero?"

He glanced at Zhan Shen, who was not far away.

"I've heard Zhan Shen talk about you."

"You used to be a member of Boss Du's Loyalty Hall, and you also worked for the outer circle of the Military Intelligence Bureau."

"Later, due to the pressure of making a living, I went to Zhang Xiaolin through an introduction."

Lin Huaibu's heart tightened.

He rarely mentioned these old stories to anyone.

But then I thought about it again, and since Zhan Shen was a top assassin of the Military Intelligence Bureau, it wasn't surprising that he could find out these things.

Wang Xuesen continued, "Zhang Xiaolin is a violent, mean, and suspicious man."

"He treated his subordinates like pigs and dogs, always demanding that they risk their lives but never giving them a way to survive."

"Brother Lin, we're all from the same old Jianghu, saying anything else would be hypocritical."

He looked directly at Lin Huaibu.

"Work with me."

"Just like Zhan Shen, two hundred US dollars a month."

Lin Huaibu's heart pounded wildly.

Two hundred US dollars!

Zhang Xiaolin gave him thirty-five silver dollars, plus twenty catties of rice, with an air of immense gratitude.

My mother is sick, and they won't even lend me 500 yuan for medical expenses.

On his first visit, Wang Xuesen took his mother to the special care ward of Renji Hospital.

They even offered him a monthly salary of two hundred US dollars.

The gap is too big.

It's so grand that even hesitating for a second feels hypocritical.

Lin Huaibu doesn't care about any sense of national or familial sentiment.

He's been working for the traitor Zhang Xiaolin.

Why would anyone care that Wang Xuesen was a member of the 76th Division?

Besides, even someone as proud as Zhan Shen was willing to stand by Wang Xuesen's side.

This shows that Wang Xuesen was at least not the kind of person who would mistreat his brothers.

Lin Huaibu raised his head and fixed his gaze: "Director Wang, from today onwards, my life, Lin Huaibu's life, belongs to you."

"I'll do whatever you point to; if I even frown, may I be struck by lightning!"

Wang Xuesen laughed heartily and patted him heavily on the shoulder: "Good!"

"With my brother's divine spear protecting me, my chances of survival have increased by 10%."

Lin Huaibu said seriously, "As long as I have a breath left, no one can touch you from under my gun."

Zhan Shen listened from the side, his eyebrows twitching slightly.

He believed that.

Lin Huaibu's gun was indeed very fast.

Wang Xuesen took out two large yellow croakers from his bag and handed them over directly: "I was in a hurry when I came out, so this is all I have."

"To show my sincerity, consider this as an advance payment of my brother's salary."

Lin Huaibu's expression changed, and he quickly declined, "How can this be?"

"My mother's medical expenses have already cost the director a fortune, and I haven't even done anything for her. How can I possibly accept gold bars?"

Wang Xuesen placed the gold bar into his palm: "You must have one."

"I see that my sister-in-law's hands are cracked from the cold."

"Women should live with us; we can't let them suffer all the time."

"Take this and buy your sister-in-law two sets of warm clothes, and some tonics."

"When the time is right, I'll find my brother a nicer house."

"We'll have two servants then, so Mother can rest and recuperate in peace."

"One sentence."

"What I, Wang Xuesen, have, you, brother, have too."

"While not necessarily becoming extremely wealthy, at least we will be able to live comfortably without worrying about food and clothing."

Holding the two large yellow croakers, Lin Huaibu felt inexplicably at ease.

He stopped pretending.

Who doesn't want a good life?

Who would want to live their whole life in a drafty alleyway, watching their wife's hands crack from the cold and their mother wait to die?

He took a deep breath, clasped his hands in a fist and said, "Then I, Lin, will respectfully accept your offer."

"I will go to the Zhang residence this afternoon to say goodbye."

Wang Xuesen immediately shook his head to stop him: "Brother, you mustn't."

Lin Huaibu was taken aback.

Wang Xuesen lowered his voice: "Brother, please stay at the Zhang residence for now."

We'll make plans for another time.

Lin Huaibu quickly understood what was going on.

A person like Wang Xuesen, who is respectful and courteous to scholars, is bound to accomplish great things.

Zhang Xiaolin is now one of the most powerful figures in Shanghai.

Xuesen must have had other plans for letting him stay at Zhang's mansion.

"Okay, I'll follow your instructions," Lin Huaibu said.

Wang Xuesen breathed a sigh of relief.

Old Zhang was a cautious man, and Boss Dai attempted to assassinate him several times, but failed.

With Lao Lin's help, we might not be without a chance of winning.

Thinking of this, Wang Xuesen took out a piece of paper from his inner pocket and handed it to him: "I have an IOU here."

"Three thousand yuan."

"I had it opened through a money exchange; all the paperwork is in order."

Seeing Lin Huaibu's confusion, he continued, "If Zhang Xiaolin suspects you later, just say that the medical expenses were borrowed from loan sharks."

"In addition, you'll have to say you have connections with Director Li of the hospital's surgery department to get me into a special care ward."

"He'll definitely send someone to call and ask."

"Director Li will take responsibility for this."

Lin Huaibu stared blankly at Wang Xuesen, holding the IOU.

This person even thought of a way out for him.

Wang Xuesen continued, "Zhang Xiaolin is extremely arrogant."

"You could explain one more thing."

"After all, you are his trusted bodyguard. After you mentioned the Zhang family mansion and his reputation, Yang Hongchang was afraid and that's why he gave you some favors."

"If Zhang Xiaolin hears this, he won't investigate further."

"The kind of person he is is the one who believes that his reputation can intimidate others."

"To be honest, it would have been more appropriate for our mother to stay in a regular ward," Wang Xuesen said, looking towards the ward and softening his tone.

"A regular ward is not conspicuous."

"But the old man's health can't afford to be delayed."

"The special care unit has sufficient medication and nurses."

"It's just a little detour; as long as she recovers as soon as possible, it's all worth it."

Lin Huaibu almost burst into tears, but he gritted his teeth and suppressed the bitterness.

Too thin.

It's incredibly detailed.

He now wishes he could die for Wang Xuesen right now!

"Director Wang, I will always remember your immense kindness."

Wang Xuesen smiled and said, "You're too kind."

"From now on, when there are no outsiders, you can call me Boss, or Xuesen, or Brother."

"Calling him 'Director' so formally makes it sound like business; it's too distant."

Lin Huaibu nodded: "Okay, boss."

Wang Xuesen nodded in satisfaction.

He gave a few more instructions, telling Lin Huaibu not to show any unusual behavior in the next two days, and not to say too much to Han Xiaomei.

Now that you have the money, don't rush to spend it.

Women are not unreliable.

But since it involves life and death, it's always better to play it safe.

Lin Huaibu may be a hero, but he's not necessarily good at scheming and plotting.

What needs to be reminded still needs to be made clear.

Lin Huaibu wrote them down one by one.

At the door of the ward, Han Xiaomei peeked out.

When she saw her husband standing with Wang Xuesen, the previous resentment and bitterness on her face finally disappeared.

She didn't know what they were saying.

All I could see was that Lin Huai's back was straighter than when he first arrived.

Han Xiaomei laughed.

She knew that her husband had met a true benefactor this time, and their family's livelihood was secured.

After leaving the hospital, Wang Xuesen got into the car.

Zhan Shen looked ahead and suddenly said, "I advise you to take in Old Lin. You won't lose money, will you?"

"I'm really bad at judging people, so I hope I won't mess things up for you."

Wang Xuesen leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes to rest, and hummed, "It's not easy for Master Zhan to have self-awareness."

"White Roses————"

"Don't bring up things you shouldn't talk about. Why are you mentioning her? I'm talking about Lin Huaibu." Zhan Shen gave him a weak glare.

"value."

"Lin Huaibu is Zhang Xiaolin's sharpest gun."

"The muzzle of this gun is now off by half an inch."

"Sometimes, even half an inch can be deadly."

"If we want to take over the Green Gang, this person is crucial; he's worth a fortune."

Zhan Shen remained silent.

After a while, he asked, "Are you planning to get involved in the stage renovation the day after tomorrow?"

Wang Xuesen smiled and said, "This is not a question of whether I am prepared to get involved or not."

"Zhang Xiaolin and Yu Yefeng have already set up the stage."

"Li Shiqun is also waiting for his head to roll."

"If I don't go on stage and sing a few lines, wouldn't that be disrespectful to everyone?"

Zhan Shen said coldly, "You're more cunning than a honeycomb briquette."

Wang Xuesen sighed, "There's nothing I can do; I'm just born to be a workaholic."

"How about you take charge of the trading another day, and I'll be your bodyguard for a few days?"

"Forget it, you might as well kill me," Zhan Shen quickly refused.

The car drove into gate number 76.

As soon as Wang Xuesen got out of the car, he saw Li Shiqun's bulletproof car.

"Director, you're finally back."

"Director Li has returned from a meeting in Nanjing. I just sent someone to ask twice, and they said to go to his office when you arrive."

"The guard at the gate will inform you."

"Okay, thank you." Wang Xuesen gave him a perfunctory bow.

"Of course." The guard's spirits lifted, and he straightened his back even more.

Wang Xuesen pondered as he walked.

Li Shiqun is back.

Zhang Xiaolin and Yu Yefeng also need to give an explanation.

The news of Yu Chu Jiu mutilating one eye to apologize had spread throughout Shanghai in a short period of time.

I don't know if this kid is a reckless fool or eager to kill Zhang Xiaolin and seize power.

This blunder forced Yu Yefeng to stop acting altogether.

The invitations for the stage renovation play were all sent to me.

Clearly, this was a showdown with Zhang Xiaolin in front of all the celebrities in Shanghai and even the Japanese.

interesting.

It's time for Old Li to contribute as well.

Wang Xuesen felt he was losing out if this guy kept hiding in the back.

correct.

My sister-in-law should be back from Nanjing by now.

It's been quite a few days since I last saw him.

That's a strange idea!